Breeder's Code of Ethics

All breeders of UKC dogs should promote and foster high standards among fellow breeders, owners, and fanciers to improve and advance the breeds in which they are involved. This code of ethics should serve as a cornerstone for a breeder's accountability and responsibility to the animals in their charge and the potential new owners of the dogs they produce.
Breeders have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of a breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated.

Records

I will keep accurate records, retain those records consistent with UKC registration policies, and make them available to UKC upon request. These records will include, but are not limited to: stud service documents, pedigrees, all litters produced, breeding and whelp dates, and all dogs/puppies sold. I may use the Breeders Record that the UKC provides to assist in maintaining these records.

Breeding

I shall plan each breeding with the paramount intention of improving the breed.
I will provide the appropriate documentation for those concerned regarding the results of any health testing, or will disclose if any such examinations have not been done.

I will select stud dogs and brood bitches by evaluating conformation, temperament, working instinct and ability, with a careful study of the breed standard and the principles of genetics.

I will not breed any stud dog or brood bitch until they are both physically and mentally mature, and will breed within the bounds of the minimum and maximum ages permitted in UKC registration policies.

I will not knowingly breed monorchids, cryptorchids, dogs with vicious or shy temperaments. I will not breed dogs with serious defects or disqualifications addressed in their breed standards.

As a responsible breeder, I will refrain from using a dog that, although free from serious or disqualifying defects, consistently produces afflicted puppies.

Health

As a breeder, I vow to maintain a rich and diverse gene pool, understanding that diversity is important for the long-term health of my breed. I will give the highest health priority to the selection of my breeding stock and will not continue to breed dogs that perpetuate inheritable disorders. I will maintain high standards of health and care for my dogs and provide people with puppies that are healthy and free from parasites.

Sales

I will be selective in the sales of my puppies, and take care with the type of homes in which they are placed. My dogs/puppies will not be sold to dog wholesalers, retailers, pet shops, or at auctions.
I will refrain from releasing any puppy until it is the minimum age as required by my states law.

Advertising and Relations

My advertising of dogs/puppies will be factual and honest, both in substance and implication.
I believe breeding purebred dogs involves certain responsibilities, and I will not take it lightly.
I will not advertise my dogs/puppies as UKC registered if they are not.
As a breeder, I will encourage dog/puppy purchasers to become involved in UKC events and to embrace the Total Dog philosophy.